Help Tupendane Transform Lives

Hello, my name is Lily Russell, and I’m a sociology major at SDSU currently volunteering in Arusha, Tanzania. I’m here for a month long Social Work & Outreach internship, working closely with Tupendane Africa Foundation (TAF), a local non-governmental organization dedicated to creating lasting social change.

Tupendane Africa Foundation, which means “let’s love one another” in Swahili, was founded in 2022 with a mission to uplift communities through empowerment, education, and support. Through its various programs, TAF works to break the cycle of poverty by offering life-changing opportunities to women and children in need. Their focus areas include women’s empowerment, early childhood education, and resource and food outreach to those living in extreme poverty or with disabilities.

One of TAF’s core initiatives is empowering women by providing them with vocational training, life skills, and business education. Many of these women are from disadvantaged backgrounds, with limited access to education or economic opportunities. Through programs like tailoring, beading, hairdressing, and cooking, these women are given the tools to start small businesses, earn a steady income, and improve their families’ living standards. TAF also offers mental health education, health and nutrition training, and support for women recovering from trauma, helping to build confidence, resilience, and self-reliance.

In addition, TAF runs a daycare service that provides a safe and nurturing environment for children, allowing their mothers to participate in empowerment programs. This also includes early childhood development (ECD) programs, ensuring that young children receive a strong educational foundation from an early age. These efforts are vital for breaking the generational cycle of poverty, as education is one of the most effective tools for long-term social and economic mobility.

Another key aspect of TAF’s work is their outreach programs, which provide direct support to families living in extreme poverty, as well as individuals with disabilities. The home visit program ensures that those who are unable to come to the foundation’s facilities still receive food, medical supplies, and access to healthcare. Additionally, TAF’s sponsorship program helps children in need by covering the costs of education, school supplies, uniforms, and healthcare, ensuring they have the resources to succeed academically and thrive in life.

However, the foundation is facing several challenges, including financial instability and limited resources. Many of the families TAF serves struggle with basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare, making it even harder for them to access education and entrepreneurial opportunities. Funds are needed to expand their programs, support more women and children, and continue providing critical services. TAF is also planning to build a primary school to offer affordable education for children graduating from daycare, ensuring they have a seamless transition into primary education and continue their academic journeys.

This is where your support can make a difference. Every donation counts—whether you’re able to contribute $5 or $500, your generosity will directly impact the lives of women and children in Arusha, Tanzania. Together, we can help Tupendane Africa Foundation create a better future for those who need it most.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Your support will help bring hope, opportunity, and empowerment to a community that desperately needs it.

*For everyone who donates, I’ll pay for a beaded bracelet made by the girls and mail it to you. Please let me know your preferred color by text or email ❤*